Black beauty with a venomous attitude is one way to describe this 1996 Viper RT/10. The revolutionary Dodge sports car that struck the enthusiast marketplace after its concept debut in 1989, the ’96 model year heralded the first changeovers from the initially developed version of this American-built supercar. Indeed, this transitional model has led some to deem it the 1.5 model based on those changes, and the 1996 version later paced the Indianapolis 500 in GTS form. Delivered new to Bob Koller Dodge in Naperville, Illinois, this RT/10 is one of 231 produced in black for 1996, and it presently displays just 4,242 original miles since being built. Thanks to changes in the exhaust design, the 8.0L V-10 engine, with its Lamborghini-engineered aluminum block based on Chrysler’s LA-series engine, jumped to 415 HP that year. The engine features sequential-port fuel injection and is backed by a 6-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential. Under the pigment is composite body panels with reinforced skin, keeping the curb weight below 3,500 pounds. That shape covers a tubular space frame with center spine construction, and handling is ably assisted by both power steering and 4-wheel power disc brakes. Once inside, one finds a black leather interior with high-back seats, pod-design gauging, short-throw shifter, deluxe audio equipment and air conditioning. The overall look of this car is accented with silver stripes that match the beautiful 5-spoke 17-inch aluminum wheels. This touch is all that breaks up the overall blackout treatment this car displays, down to the emblems in relief, black sidewall tires and matched black hardtop, a part of the car’s design which allows for removable windows. Unfortunately, the Viper has now joined other storied vehicles, recently accelerating off into the pages of automotive history. This example, with its excellent conditioning and special color combination, represents that heritage in any setting.

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Information found on the website is presented as advance information for the auction lot. Photos, materials for videos, descriptions and other information are provided by the consignor/seller and is deemed reliable, but Mecum Auction does not verify, warrant or guarantee this information. The lot and information presented at auction on the auction block supersedes any previous descriptions or information. Mecum is not responsible for information that may be changed or updated prior to the auction. The decision to purchase should be based solely on the buyers personal inspection of the lot at the auction site prior to the auction.